There are a lot of ways to protect yourself against the cold and one of them is to get the flu shot. It boosts your immune system, thereby, providing better protection. Even though you had a shot last year, you should not skip it this year as its protection level declines within a year.

Are probiotics useful in getting rid of the cold?
Some probiotics, but not all, can shorten colds in two days, according to a certain study. You should keep an eye for these two Lactobacillus strains:

Plantarum HEAL 9

Paracasei 8700:2

Unfortunately, these strains are not yet available on the market.

In addition to probiotics and flu shot, you can get relief from the cold by taking zinc. But you must take a lozenge or syrup so it can directly contact with the virus in your throat. For zinc to be effective in fighting against the cold virus, you must take at least 75 mg daily. The said amount is safe for short-term use only. Although this type of remedy is effective, it has its own downsides, such as bad taste in the mouth and mild nausea.

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